The Department of Education-Bicol (DepEd-5) utilized its remaining funds from the PHHP192-million Disaster Preparedness and Response Program (DPRP) to respond to the damage caused by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name Trami).

Affected schools received their requested DPRP funding promptly based on their immediate needs, DepEd-5 spokesperson Mayflor Jumamil said in an interview Monday.

“The focus will mainly be on cleaning and repairing classrooms, facilities, and administrative offices, as well as constructing temporary learning spaces in schools that were heavily impacted by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine,” she said.

The Schools Division Offices (SDOs) of Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Naga City, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon City, Masbate City, and Iriga City were among those that received the DPRP funding.

“The funds also facilitated coordinated efforts to provide essential supplies to affected schools, including food packs, hygiene kits, and learning materials. Additionally, psychosocial first aid was conducted to support learners, teachers and personnel in their recovery,” Jumamil said.

A total of 520 schools in the region were affected by flooding and landslides.

In a statement, DepEd-5 Director Gilbert Sadsad said the DPRP fund is expected to be fully utilized soon, as additional fund requests from affected SDOs are anticipated, subject to validation.

Sadsad said he would be requesting an additional PHP20 million from the central office to cover the immediate printing of learning activity sheets for affected learners who are unable to attend in-person classes due to the ongoing difficult conditions in schools and the suspension of classes.

“The printing of learning activity sheets is currently the most practical solution for ensuring that education continues for our learners who cannot attend in-person classes. We cannot rely on modules because many schools are still submerged in floodwaters and these materials have been damaged and are no longer usable,” he said.

Sadsad added that the swift distribution of DPRP funds is crucial, not only in repairing physical infrastructure but also in restoring a sense of normalcy in affected schools and communities. (PNA)